The jade plant is a prevalent species used in homes worldwide. It is a succulent so it can store liquids well. This means that special care must be taken with the intensity of irrigation. Beyond that, its development is simple. It is enough to provide sufficient lighting, protect it from pests and give it a suitable substrate to thrive. Discover the jade plant’s specific care and enjoy its windy conditions. For many people, this species is synonymous with abundance and good luck, so it is always recommended to have one at home.
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Characteristics and Origin of the jade plant
Although it is known as a lucky tree or money plant, its scientific name is Crassula ovata. It is a succulent native to southern Africa. Being perennial, its duration is as long as specific care is given. The money plant has fleshy leaves, which can reach up to seven centimeters, and a jade green color, from which its name comes. They commonly take on a reddish tint around the edges, while they can develop white flowers in the cold months. The trunk is usually thick and grows bushy. It is versatile regarding weather conditions, supporting heat and wind but not frost.
As for lighting, it requires at least four hours of sunlight a day. It must have adequate water, without excesses, but with a moist substrate.Jade plant meaning
This species is present in millions of homes around the world. And one of the reasons so many people choose it is its profound meaning, which is closely linked to the Chinese philosophy of feng shui. According to this belief system, succulent plants bring harmony to the house and protect it from negative energies. In the case of the jade plant, it is also believed that it generates abundance and prosperity in the place where it is located. Hence its nickname as “money plant” or “tree of abundance.” It is recommended to place it in the leading sectors of the room, such as the living room or the hall. On the contrary, the kitchen and the bathroom are not good choices due to the constant humidity. Of the environment. In some places, it is also a symbol of friendship, so it is customary to offer it as a gift to a friend who is wished prosperity.
Care for your jade plant to grow healthy.
The money plant can develop both in the garden and in a pot, being a species that is highly adaptable to external conditions since it requires a lot of sun. However, with some specific care, decorating the living room or the living room with an aesthetic and meaningful plant is straightforward.
Substratum
This species has no complications regarding the substrate, although it must have porosity and good drainage. Excess water and humidity are the leading causes of this plant’s development. Therefore, it is always necessary to check that the earth is humid but without flooding. Gravel, perlite, and coarse sand complement a jade plant substrate.
Light
One of the greatest needs of the tree of abundance is the amount of sunlight. It requires direct lighting for at least four hours a day. In the case of installing it in the garden or terrace, it does not present significant complications. The fact of providing a semi-shade space should be taken into account if the hours under the intense sun are more than six. If the plant is indoors, it must be brought closer to a window where the sun’s rays enter as directly as possible. With sufficient light, it is very likely to develop reddish fringes on the leaves, making them more conspicuous.
Irrigation for the jade plant
There are two keys to the correct supply of water in this species. On the one hand, only water when the substrate is dry. To check it, you should plunge a finger into it and check the humidity level. On the other hand, it is convenient to spray with less intensity but more often. You must be very careful with excess water, which is why this plant can have problems. In general, watering it twice a month in summer and only once in winter is recommended.
fertilizer and compost
Fertilizing this species during the hot months is essential because it is more active than in winter. Applying organic fertilizers that help prevent diseases is necessary.
Pruning
Pruning in the money tree is not as necessary as in other plants, but it should be carried out if diseased leaves or parts are found. Remove excess branches and leaves with disinfected scissors. That helps prevent pests.
Containers and pots
For the placement of the jade plant indoors, clay or clay pots are recommended, which have excellent drainage. They are widely used in the decorative aspect, for which it is convenient to deposit them in small containers next to other specimens of succulents.
Plantation
Duplicating a money tree is simple and can be done by cutting a branch with several leaves from the original plant. Once the cutting dries, within a day or two outdoors, it should be placed on the substrate. Compact the soil a little in a pot and the garden so the cutting develops firmly.
Plagues and diseases
The jade plant can suffer from some diseases caused by various reasons. For example, by watering or excessive humidity. Also, due to lack of light or poor quality of the substrate. One of the most common symptoms is that the tips of the leaves burn or fall off. In these cases, it is best to resort to organic fertilizers and fungicides. This species is usually exposed to the following pests :
- mealybugs
- Snails.
- Fungus.
- Mites.
The jade plant in the home has many meanings.
Whether for ornamental use or to attract good energy at home, the good luck tree is an excellent option to decorate gardens, terraces, and living rooms. Summons abundance, good luck, and prosperity. If possible, following the advice and recommendations of the decorative philosophy of feng shui, place it in the central room of your house.